Virginia Cities in Prime Locations

Virginia Beach | Image credit: Daniel Halseth

Virginia residents benefit from living in one of America’s most beautiful and ideally situated states. With a diverse geography that ranges from the mountainous Appalachian region to the Atlantic coast, residents have a variety of choices regarding the kind of place where they want to live.

Many of Virginia’s communities have ideal locations that offer residents access to an array of lifestyle benefits, whether it be a charming downtown, nearby natural scenery, or historical destinations. Let’s look at some of the areas here with prime locations. 

Stafford

Stafford is a place known for its rich history, having been the site of major historical events dating back to pre-colonial days. An easy commute to Washington D.C., Quantico, and Fredericksburg, it has convenient access to several regional economic and employment hubs while maintaining a quiet, safe, suburban feel. This ideal location makes Stafford a hotspot for professionals, families, retirees, and everyone in between.

Aquia Harbour is a scenic gated community with an impeccable location along flowing creeks and rivers that lead to the Potomac River. It houses several marinas and boat launches, as well as excellent golf courses and country clubs. This community is in one of Virginia’s most idyllic locations, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Stafford, where there are hiking trails, forests, and rivers.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a bustling metropolis along the water. Located where the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean collide, this coastal community offers miles of sandy shores for residents to enjoy. It is a popular destination for boaters, surfers, and sunbathers and includes a large boardwalk along the water filled with food, stores, and family-friendly fun. Virginia Beach’s coast is where the Jamestown colonists arrived in the early 17th century, cementing its unique status within American history.

Virginia Beach is Virginia’s most populous city and its cultural and commercial center. It has a superb food scene, which includes delicious seafood options, and premier shopping destinations with exciting family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium, amusement rides, and more. It is also based near many highways that connect the city to various locations across the state.

Virginia Beach | Image credit: Kristinah Archer

Salem

Salem is a historic community with abundant appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. It is based in the Shenandoah Valley, a Western Virginia region in the foothills of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. This area is immersed in thick forests and offers gorgeous mountain views. It is also where many of Virginia’s best wineries are situated. Salem has easy access to everything this region has to offer and is a 15-minute drive from Roanoke, the state’s largest city west of Richmond. 

The city boasts major sports venues that host games throughout the year, including minor league baseball and NCAA events. Conveniently situated near Interstate 81, which runs through the region, many use Salem as a base for exploring Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The downtown area is vibrant with much for residents to enjoy, including a farmer’s market, delicious local restaurants, and craft breweries.

Shenandoah Valley | Image credit: lorimcm